Andrea Stark has been appointed as the first Chief Executive of a new charity managing the High House Production Park in Purfleet. The charity aims to develop the Production Park further as an international centre of excellence for culture, creative skills and regeneration.

Prior to being appointed as Chief Executive, Andrea held the position of Executive Director of Arts Council East and South East and was instrumental in establishing the High House Production Park.

Of Andrea's appointment, Tony Hall, Chair of the High House Production Park and Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House said:

"I’m delighted that Andrea is taking up this new role. She is perfect for it. She has exceptional credentials, but is also passionate about Thurrock, passionate about cultural regeneration and a real visionary. "

High House Production Park opened in late 2010 with the Royal Opera House relocated its set and scenery construction to the new purpose-built Bob and Tamar Manoukian Production Workshop. Since then, the flagship building for the National Skills Academy for Creative & Cultural has opened its doors. It will provide unique training opportunities in backstage and off-stage stills. The building also includes a purpose-built 'practice theatre' with sound, lighting rigs and a fly tower. The next phase in the development of the 14-acre site includes the building of artists' studios, dedicated space for independent artists and creative businesses.